Maxi Haley Munno

Likely a sheltie / terrier mix, she's a true mutt and the best dog period. She was abused by her first owner, I was fortunate enough to be at a pet store in search of a dog when I saw her, she was so cute, she was so patient with a flock of children pawing at her, I fell in love instantly. Her second owner rescued her from living outside under a bush and took care of her for about a year, so I believe she was about 2-3 years old when I got her. I've had her for over 9 years now, so she's likely around 12 years old. She has developed tons of confidence and personality over years, and those that have witnessed it cannot believe she's the same dog. I am very lucky to have Maxi as my pet and she brings tons of joy to my life. I photograph her often, but here are some of my favorite pictures.

Some of you may recall Maxi took ill last year and lost 12 of her 32 pounds. She collapsed at my feet and I rushed her to help. She was sick for quite a while with vets telling me she was not going to live very long, 4 weeks to 4 months tops they told me. Well I'm happy to report that she is doing VERY well and it's been well over a year since she was sick and she recovered stronger than she was before. She seems bonded more closely with me and a much happier dog overall, not that she was unhappy, but the difference is noticeable. I recently changed her dog food to an older-dog's food to ensure I'm catering to her nutrition needs. She seemed to really like the change of food and gobbles it up daily, she's eating more these days than she used to, every day. Which really makes me happy, I used to worry when she'd skip meals here and there. I don't have to worry about that any longer. One of the things a vet had suggested was for me to spoil her since she was dying last year, so she got a great taste of some of my "people food" and the only downside to that has been now that she knows what the smells are, she raids the garbage can in the kitchen. The lid is cracked and easy for her to smell what's inside, so I am more diligent about bringing that outside sooner rather than later. I will probably get a new can soon so I can put it under the sink and keep her away from it. I'm just always worried she's going to get sick or hurt from what she finds in there. She knows she's not supposed to be in there, when I come home from work on days when she's raided it, she comes to me with her head down and tail between the legs, but what am I to do? She's a spoiled little dog, but she's my buddy, I'm very thankful I still have her as my companion, she's really a great dog and an awesome friend. It'll never cease to amaze me how a pet can be such a big part of one's family.

One of these days, I'll update the photos below and maybe even add in a movie or two of her.

Click on a thumbnail to see a larger version.